Get updates on Austin Reaves gay rumors as his shirtless photo has gone viral on different social media platforms including TikTok.
Amidst a wave of online speculation, NBA star Austin Reaves finds himself in the limelight regarding his sexuality, triggered by a viral shirtless photo on TikTok.
The image, featuring the Los Angeles Lakers guard alongside a friend, has fueled numerous comments and reactions from fans, prompting questions about his sexual orientation.
This article delves into the genesis of the rumors, aiming to unravel the narrative surrounding Reaves’ personal life.
It explores any statements or responses he may have made in light of the speculation and sheds light on how the basketball player navigates this unexpected spotlight.
As social media influences public perceptions, Reaves’ experience underscores the challenges and scrutiny that athletes face beyond the courts.
Is Austin Reaves Gay? Rumors Explained
The rumors about Reaves being gay started after a TikTok user named @jakepaulisoverparty posted a video on December 10, 2023, with the caption “Austin Reaves is gay and I have proof”.
The video showed a screenshot of a shirtless photo of Reaves and his friend, allegedly taken from his Snapchat account.
The user claimed that the photo was a “coming out” announcement and that Reaves had a boyfriend.
However, other TikTok users quickly debunked the video, which pointed out that the photo was actually from 2019 when Reaves was still playing for the University of Oklahoma.
They also noted that the friend in the photo was not his boyfriend, but his former teammate Jamal Bieniemy.
The original photo was posted by Bieniemy on his Instagram account on June 29, 2019, with the caption “My brother for life”.
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Reaves himself has not addressed the rumors directly, but he has made it clear that he is not gay.
In an interview with ESPN on December 11, 2023, he said he was “very happy” with his girlfriend, whom he has been dating since college.
He also said that he was “not bothered” by the rumors and focused on his basketball career.
Austin Reaves Shirtless Photo Gone Viral: Trending On TikTok
Disregarding the unfounded rumors, a shirtless photo of Reaves has taken TikTok by storm, propelling him into viral stardom.
Users on the platform openly express admiration for his physique and charm, turning the photo into fodder for memes, challenges, and duets.
Some even playfully jest about wishing he was gay or speculating about their ability to influence his sexual orientation.
The photo’s impact extends beyond social banter, significantly boosting Reaves’ popularity and TikTok following.
He amassed over 500,000 new followers in a mere week, pushing his total count to an impressive 1.2 million.
Reaves leverages this platform to share glimpses of his life, showcasing his basketball prowess, camaraderie with teammates, and various skills.
His TikTok success has garnered attention and accolades from notable figures in the NBA and the entertainment industry.
LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Hart, and Drake are among the celebrities and athletes endorsing Reaves.
Their comments and reposts on TikTok underscore the growing influence of social media in shaping the narrative and popularity of sports personalities beyond the court.
